A comparison of two-dimensional and real-time 3D transoesophageal echocardiography and angiography for assessing the left atrial appendage anatomy for sizing a left atrial appendage occlusion system: impact of volume loading.

Aims: Correct sizing of a left atrial appendage (LAA) closure system is important to avoid redeployment of the device and peri-device leaks. The aims of this study were to assess the significance of two-dimensional transoesophageal echocardiography (2D-TEE), real-time 3D transoesophageal echocardiography (RT 3D-TEE) and angiography for measuring the size of the LAA landing zone and to determine the impact on sizing an LAA closure device. Furthermore, we investigated the relevance of volume loading on LAA size.

Relationship between the frequency of blood pressure self-measurement and blood pressure reduction with antihypertensive therapy : results of the OLMETEL (OLMEsartan TELemonitoring blood pressure) study.

Objectives: This subanalysis of the OLMETEL (OLMEsartan TELemonitoring blood pressure) study in patients with essential hypertension assessed the relationship between the frequency of blood pressure self-measurement (BPSM) and the response to blood pressure (BP)-lowering therapy with olmesartan medoxomil, and the number of BP readings per week necessary to detect a mean systolic or diastolic BP reduction > or =5mm Hg.

Methods: A total of 53 patients with essential hypertension received treatment with olmesartan medoxomil 10, 20 or 40 mg daily for 12 weeks. BPSM was performed for the first 9 weeks using a TensioPhone TP2 device.